Power disadvantage
Problem is, however, that I tested a fully-loaded Limited model. Some competitors offer more powerful high-end variants, for example the Mazda3 GT and Toyota Corolla XRS, producing 158 and 155 horsepower with 2.3L and 2.4L engines, respectively. They also develop more torque at lower engine speeds. That's not very good news for the Korean sedan.
On the plus side, a 4-speed automatic transmission is standard fare with the 2008 Elantra Limited, whereas the two aforementioned Japanese require a premium of at least $1,150. True, Hyundai's autobox only includes four gears while rivals offer five, but the unit's flexibility and no-cost advantage more than make up for it.
The Elantra Limited also features four-wheel disc brakes which I found easy to modulate. ABS is standard and not too intrusive. The power steering is progressively assisted (based on the engine speed), although it seemed too light at high speed. It lacks the directional precision of a Mazda3 on the highway.
Good tourer
Having said that, the ride is comfortable and predictable -- nice qualities to have when driving over long distances. The suspension does a good job of filtering out road irregularities. Meanwhile, body roll is limited, which can't be said of all compact sedans.
The interior of this upscale model is a curious example of voluntary simplicity. Flanked by a pair of air ducts is the audio system, right in the middle of a wide, plain-looking dashboard. Below are ten small buttons made of white shiny plastic, all surrounding an oval display with a soft blue lighting. Their modern styling contrasts with the classic stereo interface.
These numerous controls, which require a lot of attention from the driver, allow you to adjust the various climate settings. Three rotary knobs offering a good grip would have been more user-friendly... although not as attractive, I must admit.
Leather or not...
The Elantra features a tilt/telescopic steering wheel, which is uncommon for a compact car. It's a shame, however, that the leather trim looks and feels plasticky as if it were a cheap product. How ironic for a car offering leather-appointed seats.
The front heated seats are large and comfort-oriented, while the rear bench seat is big enough to accommodate two adults or three kids. Moreover, the trunk is flexible thanks to the 60/40 split rear seatbacks. At 402 liters, the Elantra offers class-leading cargo room.
Problem is, however, that I tested a fully-loaded Limited model. Some competitors offer more powerful high-end variants, for example the Mazda3 GT and Toyota Corolla XRS, producing 158 and 155 horsepower with 2.3L and 2.4L engines, respectively. They also develop more torque at lower engine speeds. That's not very good news for the Korean sedan.
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| The Hyundai Elantra Limited features four-wheel disc brakes. |
On the plus side, a 4-speed automatic transmission is standard fare with the 2008 Elantra Limited, whereas the two aforementioned Japanese require a premium of at least $1,150. True, Hyundai's autobox only includes four gears while rivals offer five, but the unit's flexibility and no-cost advantage more than make up for it.
The Elantra Limited also features four-wheel disc brakes which I found easy to modulate. ABS is standard and not too intrusive. The power steering is progressively assisted (based on the engine speed), although it seemed too light at high speed. It lacks the directional precision of a Mazda3 on the highway.
Good tourer
Having said that, the ride is comfortable and predictable -- nice qualities to have when driving over long distances. The suspension does a good job of filtering out road irregularities. Meanwhile, body roll is limited, which can't be said of all compact sedans.
The interior of this upscale model is a curious example of voluntary simplicity. Flanked by a pair of air ducts is the audio system, right in the middle of a wide, plain-looking dashboard. Below are ten small buttons made of white shiny plastic, all surrounding an oval display with a soft blue lighting. Their modern styling contrasts with the classic stereo interface.
These numerous controls, which require a lot of attention from the driver, allow you to adjust the various climate settings. Three rotary knobs offering a good grip would have been more user-friendly... although not as attractive, I must admit.
Leather or not...
The Elantra features a tilt/telescopic steering wheel, which is uncommon for a compact car. It's a shame, however, that the leather trim looks and feels plasticky as if it were a cheap product. How ironic for a car offering leather-appointed seats.
The front heated seats are large and comfort-oriented, while the rear bench seat is big enough to accommodate two adults or three kids. Moreover, the trunk is flexible thanks to the 60/40 split rear seatbacks. At 402 liters, the Elantra offers class-leading cargo room.
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| The Elantra's dashboard is a curious example of voluntary simplicity! |